Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival?
The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival (TBBHF) is Southwest Florida’s premier cultural event. This 10-Day, family friendly, cultural experience focuses on music, education, economic and social empowerment and the arts. The 2-Day Music Fest, which takes place the weekend of the MLK holiday, features local and nationally, recognized musicians, artists, poets, and craftspeople. TBBHF is organized by the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, a 501 c3, Florida non-profit corporation.

When does the Festival Take Place?
The 2018 Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival starts on Thursday, January 11th and officially ends on Sunday, January 21st. The 2-day Music Fest starts the morning of Saturday, January 13th and officially ends on the evening of Sunday, January 14th

When’s the best time to travel?
If you’re traveling into Tampa, Florida we recommend you come into the city a day prior to the event(s) you wish to attend. TBBHF have special rates at hotels around the Tampa Bay Area. Please visit, MUSIC FEST, and click on ACCOMMODATIONS to reserve your room today.

Where will the Music Fest be located?
The Music Fest is located in Tampa, Florida, at the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Downtown Tampa, 600 N Ashley Drive, Tampa, Florida 33602

Where downtown can I park for the 2-Day Music Fest?
Hourly parking is available in the Poe Garage and other Garages downtown. Street parking meters north of Kennedy Blvd are free on weekends.

Where do I enter Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for the Festival?
Entrance to the Music Fest is available on the Ashley Street side of Curtis Hixon Park.

Are there restrictions to what I can bring into Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park?

What is permitted?
• Small bags and backpacks (smaller than 17″x12″x10″, subject to search)
• Wheelchairs and medical scooters
• Strollers for children
• Hand-held still cameras
• Lawn chairs with low backs

What items are NOT permitted?
• No Alcohol (beer and wine available for sale on-site) or illegal drugs
• Glass containers or outside Steins
• Coolers and thermoses
• Umbrellas and tents (anything that can obstruct the view of others)
• Large chairs with umbrellas on the back
• Large chairs with high backs
• Video and audio recording equipment
• Wagons, skateboards and Segways
• Weapons, illicit drugs and other contraband

Can I bring in my own food or drinks?Outside food and beverages are not permitted. We are a non-profit charity and solicit your support. There are plenty of vendors within the park that offer a wide variety of food options at reasonable prices. Soda, juice, water, beer and wine are available for purchase.

Where are the other Festival events located?
Additional Festival events take place throughout the Tampa Bay area. For a complete list of dates, times, locations, and events, visit the Events section of our website.

How much is it to attend the Festival? Advanced tickets for the 2-Day Music Fest are $10 for BOTH days or $7 per person for groups of 5 or more (sale ends January 11th). Onsite fee for the Music Fest is $10 per person, each day. Children 10 and under are free.

Preferred Seating and VIP Section passes to the Music Fest are also available. Additional cost varies based on traveling destination, number of nights residing, and number of paid events you plan on attending. Additional tickets for Festival related events can be purchased on the event-specific website page.

When will you be posting the schedule?
Sign up for our e-newsletter, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram to get the latest on our lineup. Music Fest schedule will be posted after the Thanksgiving Holiday.

How do I get press credentials?
For general press inquiries or to request media credentials please email [email protected]
For tickets and more information about the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, please visit www.TampaBlackHeritage.org.

How can I participate in the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival?
Interested in Volunteering, please visit our website www.TampaBlackHeritage.org, and register. To inquire about entertainment/speaker, please complete the “Contact Us” form on our website and someone will contact you.

What kind of access do I get with my preferred seating Music Fest pass?

Preferred seating pass at Music Fest comes with a reserved seat, in a gated area, near the front of the stage. Everyone MUST check-in at the “Welcome Station” in the park, to receive your preferred seating pass to obtain access that area.

Can I drive to Tampa for the Festival?
Yes and FREE parking is available at all of the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival signature events (based on availability). You will incur a small fee for Garage parking, downtown, for the Music Fest. Metered parking on weekends are Free, with exceptions of parking North of Kennedy Blvd.

Are there airline packages?
Airline package are not available through the Festival at this time. Please reach out to your select travel agent to make your flight reservations. We recommend that you purpose airfare, at least, 14 days in advance for the best rate.
What are the hotel options?
Go to the MUSIC FEST, tab and click on “Accommodations” for Festival special rates.

How do I sign up for Festival e-mail newsletters?
Our FREE Festival e-mail newsletters include the latest line-up updates, weekend schedules, official events and special offers from the Festival and our partners. Sign up here.

Can I sign up to receive Festival-related text alerts?
No, not at this time, text alerts for the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival is not available.

Where should I direct general inquiries?
For information about sponsorship, performance/appearance requests or any general Festival questions, please e-mail [email protected]

What kind of music will there be?
Old School, Jazz, Neo-Soul, R&B, Gospel, Reggae, and more.

Is this a kid-friendly event?
The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival is a family-friendly event and offers FREE admission. We have a Children’s Village area with kid-friendly activities until 6pm Saturday and Sunday at the Music Fest. One of our signature events is “Youth Night”, were youths take over the stage and express what cultural heritage means to them.

Is this a dog-friendly event?
Yes, dogs are allowed at the Music Fest. It’s an outdoor event.

Is photographic or recording equipment permitted at the festival?
Hand held still cameras are permitted. Tripods are not advisable. Audio and video recording devices are NOT permitted.

How can I gain credentials for a press pass?
Please send your contact information to [email protected] along with link to your publication and related media.

How can I become a sponsor?
TBBHF is a not for profit company and is sponsored by individuals and corporate sponsors. Your support is greatly appreciated and there are several levels of opportunities designed to fit your company’s needs and budget. Please call TBBHF at 1-888-224-1733 ext. 3143 or email us at [email protected] to learn how you can become a sponsor.

How can I submit my artist or band to play at the Music Fest?
TBBHF is always excepting submissions. Email press kit, website, and links to performances to [email protected].

Is the Music Festival accessible for those with disabilities?
Yes. The park is ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant.

Are there any additional policies?
No unauthorized vending. TBBHF reserves the right to deny entry or remove from the festival anyone in violation of these policies. The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival reserves the right to sell all Beverages. Vendors in violation of this will be removed and no refund will be issued. Only good, positive, family fun is allowed during the Festival.